Odisha has intensified COVID-19 surveillance before Rath Yatra after rising cases in neighbouring states, urging vigilance without panic during celebrations.
With COVID-19 cases rising in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, the Odisha government has intensified surveillance and public health preparedness ahead of the annual Rath Yatra, one of India’s largest religious gatherings. The move aims to minimize the risk of virus transmission as lakhs of devotees are expected to participate in the festival starting from July 16.
Health experts say that while there is no reason to panic, mass gatherings remain an ideal environment for respiratory viruses to spread, making preventive measures more important than ever.
Odisha strengthens COVID-19 preparedness
Ahead of Rath Yatra, Odisha Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling chaired a high-level review meeting with senior health officials to assess the state’s preparedness. The meeting focused on strengthening disease surveillance, enhancing COVID-19 monitoring across districts, ensuring hospitals are prepared for any surge in cases, and reinforcing infection-control measures during Rath Yatra.
Following the meeting, district health authorities instructed City Hospitals, sub-divisional hospitals, community health centres (CHCs), and primary health centres (PHCs) to remain on high alert and ensure adequate medical readiness. Authorities have also reassured residents that the state has sufficient healthcare infrastructure to respond to any emerging situation and urged people not to panic.
Why do mass gatherings increase COVID-19 risk?
Although COVID-19 is no longer considered a global public health emergency, the virus continues to circulate and can spread quickly in crowded settings. Religious events such as Rath Yatra involve close physical contact among thousands of devotees, long travel journeys by train and bus, crowded queues and enclosed spaces, and visitors arriving from multiple states and countries.
These factors can increase the likelihood of respiratory infections, particularly among older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
Who should be extra careful?
Doctors advise certain groups to take additional precautions during crowded events, including:
- Adults aged 60 years and older
- People with diabetes, heart disease, or chronic lung disease
- Cancer patients or those with weakened immunity
- Pregnant women
- Individuals recovering from recent illness
If anyone develops symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue, or shortness of breath before attending the festival, they should avoid large gatherings and seek medical advice.
How to stay safe during Rath Yatra?
Simple preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of COVID-19 and other respiratory infections. Health experts recommend:
- Wash or sanitize hands frequently.
- Wear a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated areas, especially if you are at higher risk.
- Cover your mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing.
- Avoid close contact with people who appear ill.
- Stay hydrated and avoid physical exhaustion during long hours outdoors.
- Seek medical care promptly if symptoms develop after attending the event.
Those eligible for COVID-19 vaccination or booster doses should also ensure they are up to date according to current public health recommendations.
